The top innovations to come out of CES 2018

There’s no tech event quite like CES. As the largest and most influential technology event on the planet, CES (short for Consumer Electronics Show) is a gadget extravaganza not to be missed.

From global brands to early-stage start-ups, companies of all sizes show up to showcase their most impressive achievements.

With more than 3,900 exhibitors, over 2.75 million net square feet of exhibit space and 900 start-ups showing their latest technologies (not to mention several hundred government leaders in attendance), we’re not kidding when we say CES really is the biggest global stage for next-generation innovators.

Covering 5G networks, smart homes, vehicle tech, artificial intelligence, AR, VR and more, CES has every kind of technology under the sun. If you couldn’t attend in person, cure your FOMO by checking out the list we’ve compiled on the top tech to come out of this year’s event.

augmented and virtual reality

Almost every company at this year's event has, in some way or another, infused their products with AI and voice assistance. This means we’re about to get a whole lot more connected, and our tech is about to get even smarter.

Virtual and augmented reality are changing the game with everything from storytelling, healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, gaming and more. One of the most notable products at CES 2018 included the VUZIX Blade AR Sunglasses. These augmented reality glasses not only keep you connected, but can also tell you more about the world around you by floating information in front of your eyes. Probably not the best choice for driving, but cool nonetheless.

The HTC Vine Pro took away the People’s Choice Award. This VR headset is a step-up from its well-loved predecessor, the HTC Vine. Boasting increased resolution and the addition of built-in headphones, it’s a must-have for gamers.

smart home

Homeowners can look forward to enjoying increased convenience and comfort due to the rise of smart home technologies. From basic security monitoring to smart appliances, along with lighting, window coverings, irrigation, entertainment systems and more, CES 2018 was all about the future of the smart home.

This year’s Best Smart Home Device award went to the Samsung Family Hub, a fridge that’s so smart it’s almost scary. In addition to keeping your food nice and chilled, it doubles as a digital assistant and comes with a massive display. This fridge’s most impressive feature is that it knows what food you have, and can even present you with recipes based on these items. It can also let you know when food is about to expire and display local coupons for any items that may be running low on stock.

laptops and smartphones

Imagine a world where your smartphone powers your laptop! As our smartphones get more powerful, fewer and fewer people need a large computer. However, having a keyboard and a large screen can still be helpful. Razor’s Project Linda has created a laptop with a base that you can slide your smartphone into (acting as a dock). You can then use the phone screen a laptop touchpad, while your phone automatically powers it. It offers an easy solution to finishing off projects you began on your smartphone, but on a large screen.

entertainment

Our CES roundup would be incomplete without mentioning The Wall by Samsung, which was voted Best In Show this year. The Wall is the first ever, modular MicroLED TV, stretching 146 inches and displaying brighter, more contrast-rich images than any other TV in existence.

The Powerspot Transmitter is another nifty gadget to keep your eye on. This piece of tech can charge up to 30 devices as far as 80ft away, wirelessly – this means no mats, no wires, nothing! While this may not sound as exciting as driverless cars and virtual reality headsets, just think of the hassle you face every day charging your devices with messy cords. The Powerspot Transmitter could turn out to be a game changer.

If you're like me, and can’t wait to get your hands on some of these nifty technologies, remember that in order to get the most out of them, you’ll need fast internet.

With the nbn roll-out happening across Australia, there’s never been a better time to invest in new technology and if you're Interested in finding out exactly how the nbn™ will affect you, check out our guide on how the nbn will change Australia.

It's also a good chance to introduce you to our nbn-plans, that all include unlimited data, are free from lock-in contracts and have no standard activation fees, making it an easy choice when it comes to finding the perfect internet plan to make the most out of what 2018 and the future has to offer when it comes to tech innovation.